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Ayre K-5xeMP vs. Electrocompaniet - EC 4.8 MK II, or others?

I am looking to add a preamp to my current set up (Kef reference 1, Coda continuum TS power amp and Exasound e62 DAC  - Kimber hero balanced cable) and wonder if anyone could provide advice, opinions or other options in the $3,000 range?  The current set up is the best I've ever heard the kef's sound, however I feel am missing something.  I am considering the Ayre K-5xeMP or the Electrocompaniet - EC 4.8 MK II.  Open to tubes as well and curious about EAR, audiovalve and the Modwright LS 100.  

I used to have a hegel h360 and found it laid back, thin and detailed.  The Coda is warmer, with a more forward presentation and great macro and micro dynamics - this is a huge improvement for me over the hegel, but again something is missing...

Thoughts?
cshadow
big_greg
6,821 posts
 
I own the Modwright LS 100. It's one of the few things in my system that l never think about upgrading (though I'm sure there is better, maybe someday). My Ref 1s sound amazing and holographic, with great imaging. The LS 100 is very neutral to my ears and responds well to tube rolling. 
cshadow OP
22 posts
 
I have always wanted a piece of Modwright gear, so thank you for the LS100 recommendation.  

Have been wary of tubes, but the more I read the more I think a tube pre could be the way to go.  
audiom3
163 posts
 
I haven't listened to the other pre but I can say if you go with the Ayre, you will love it.  For the $2k range that they're selling for, they'd be near impossible to beat.  And if anything goes wrong with it, you're in great hands. 
cshadow OP
22 posts
 
So down to the Ayre and the Modwright...

I've read the modwright has tube rush.  No idea what that is, but I don't think I want that.  Can anyone comment?
lloydc's avatar
lloydc
778 posts
 
I have a Modwright 36.5, it’s great.  Tube preamps don’t require the attention power amps do.  Once you “hear” tubes, SS simply won’t do.
   “Tube rush” refers to a faint “whooshing” sound, white noise, that you can hear if you turn the volume to max while no music is playing.  Or maybe if you play solo piano of orchestral music really loudly.  Not really a problem.   Quieter tubes can help. 
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